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Region: General | Usage example: Her response was cold as ice despite the bad news.

Cold as ice

Meaning

Emotionless or very cool in demeanor.

Usage

Used to describe detached or intimidating people.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Ice symbolizes numbness and lack of warmth.

Romantic and drama writers since the 1800s used ice metaphors for temperament.

Related Idioms

Give someone the cold shoulder

Ignore or snub someone intentionally.

Get cold feet

To become nervous or afraid just before doing something important.

Get cold feet

Become nervous about a commitment.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.